Blog Posts

holiday stress

As we prepare for the holiday season followed by a New Year and New Administration, how do we embrace this festive time of year that will most certainly be followed by massive change, when we are already too exhausted to just take a breath?

Lead from your values. No matter what changes in leadership, we as healthcare providers are going to think, plan and do what is best for our biggest priority, our patients. I know what you're thinking: "I'm exhausted and feel like I'm reaching the burnout zone." Well, remember your oath to "Do No Harm." That statement applies to our patients and to ourselves.

This season of new beginnings and resolutions is a great time for a quick self assessment:

How are you doing physically? Emotionally?

Share your findings with someone you love and trust.

Prescribe yourself treatment as if you are the patient:

Allow time for rest and recreation.

Balance your life: spend time with the people that you love.

Have fun.

Explore your creative side.

Unplug daily.

Sleep at least eight hours.

Eat healthfully.

Exercise at least 30 minutes a day.

Spend time alone each day to slow your mind and calm your body.

I love lists. I've been making lists my entire life - on napkins, sticky notes, in digital organizers. I want to leave you with one of my favorite "to do" lists:

Plan purposefully

Prepare prayerfully

Proceed positively

Pursue persistently

I appreciate everything you do for our patients and the communities we serve. I hope you enjoy some quiet time with family and friends during the holiday season. Remember to take time for yourself and follow your own care plan this season.

Sabrina Griffin, RN, BSN, is a Divisional Director of Clinical Services for EmCare.